SAUNAS IN BATH

Like many people, I learn best by getting my hands dirty. Book smarts are one thing, but nothing beats practical experience. In between, however, is that foolhardy stage where there’s neither scholarly credits nor useful skills to fall back on. After these scrape-by-by-the-skin-of-our-teeth moments, we often hear ourselves say things like Next time I’ll do it differently or If I only knew then what I know now.

A sturdy arbor shades this spa, which is partially recessed in the ground and surrounded on two sides by a privacy wall.

When purchasing my first house, I didn’t know enough about residential construction to build a birdhouse. But that didn’t stop me from embarking upon that adventure. And I can say similar things about my early efforts at vegetable gardening, computer repair, and surfing.

Of course, I know now how valuable some good books on these subjects would have been (though I wonder whether my ego would have allowed me to read them at the time). Nevertheless, I encourage you to gather all of the information you can before installing your own hot tub. My spa is conveniently located on ground level off the master bedroom, and a bluestone path connects the house to the steamy oasis. During the summer it’s surrounded by colorful honeysuckle and clematis that cling to a louvered privacy fence I built myself. And in the winter the spa provides a spectacular view of the starry sky. Even so, I can’t help imagining how it all might be a bit better if some things had been done differently.

This section is intended to inspire and prepare you to build the hot tub environment of your dreams. If you follow this advice, I guarantee that you’ll eliminate most of your could’ve-would’ve-should’ves.